Africa CDC, in collaboration with Vital Strategies, embarked on a venture to create a self-learning course centered around mortality surveillance, based on the continental framework components hosted on the Africa CDC website. The focus of this consultancy was the development of an 11-module course, employing a blended learning format that combined self-paced modules with practical in-country training. The overarching objective was to equip member states with fundamental knowledge of mortality data’s significance, the establishment of mortality surveillance systems, and diverse approaches to collecting mortality data outlined within the continental framework. This course was tailored to cater to the requirements of technical officers, surveillance officers, epidemiologists, and professionals engaged in health, CRVS, and related sectors associated with mortality surveillance.

A co-design methodology was embraced, incorporating representatives from African countries (members of the African Union), John Hopkins University, and mortality surveillance experts. Validation of each of the course’s two batches was conducted during face-to-face sessions held in Rwanda and Namibia.

The development of the course transpired through five distinct phases:

• Needs Analysis: Identifying the specific requirements and gaps.
• Proposal Drafting: Outlining the approach, methodology, process, roles, responsibilities, budget, and timeline.
• Content Co-Development: Collaborating with field experts and the support of John Hopkins University.
• Course Validation: Ensuring the course’s effectiveness through in-person meetings with selected country representatives.
• Technical Production: The content’s technical production was executed by an Austrian company, with the final review conducted by Beyond Borders.